Abstract
Despite the continuing controversy over what psychological health is and how one might best achieve it, psychologists seem to agree on at least one principle—that a sense of control over our behavior, our environment, and our own thoughts and feelings is essential for good psychological adjustment (e.g., Korchin, 1976). When the world seems predictable and controllable and when behavior, thoughts, and emotions seem within their control, people are better able to meet life’s challenges, deal with stress, build healthy relationships, and achieve personal satisfaction and peace of mind (e.g., Kobasa, 1979; Taylor, 1983; Thompson, 1981, 1991). Although a sense of control, competence, or mastery does not ensure good psychological adjustment, good adjustment is difficult, if not impossible, without such beliefs. The most common complaints of emotional distress that lead people to seek professional help—anxiety and depression (Smith, Glass, & Miller, 1980)—are both characterized by the belief that the good things in life cannot be obtained and that the bad things in life cannot be avoided through one’s own efforts. Sometimes perceptions of lack of control are the direct result of ineffective behavior; but such perceptions also can produce ineffective behavior, as well as inaction and inertia.
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Maddux, J.E., Lewis, J. (1995). Self-Efficacy and Adjustment. In: Maddux, J.E. (eds) Self-Efficacy, Adaptation, and Adjustment. The Plenum Series in Social/Clinical Psychology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6868-5_2
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